Youth group mourns volunteer Katrina Dawson killed in siege

MOTHER of three Katrina Dawson, killed during the final hours of the Sydney siege this week is being mourned by the Ted Noffs Foundation, where she worked to help troubled youth.

On Wednesday, the group released a statement to "say goodbye" to one of their own.

"It is with deep sorrow and sadness that the Ted Noffs Foundation says goodbye to Katrina Dawson who passed away in the early hours of Tuesday morning as a result of the devastating hostage situation in Sydney.

"Katrina was an important part of the Noffs family through her crucial work in volunteering with the ASK! legal service for more than ten years.

The ASK! service provided free legal help for young people, working aside Mallesons Stephen Jacques Solicitors.

Katrina Dawson, 38, a barrister with three children, killed protecting a pregnant colleague

Ms Dawson helped begin the service and was one of its first young volunteers.

She will forever be remembered for her smile and kindness.

We are fortunate to have known her.

Noffs Counsel Amanda Noffs said the group was "personally devastated".

"And can imagine others who have worked with her over the years are similarly heart broken, our thoughts and prayers go out to them, and especially to her family and young children."

The statement continues:

"Katrina was intelligent, caring and well respected within the community.

"She was full of life and interested in the well being of others.

"Her work has touched the lives of many young people who otherwise may have become lost in the legal system.

"Our thoughts are also with Jane Farnsworth and her Mallesons colleagues whose lives were touched by Katrina."

A sea of floral tributes is growing at Martin Place where two Australians -- Katrina Dawson and Tori Johnson -- were killed during a 17-hour siege.

Ms Dawson was one of three killed during the 17-hour siege, led by gunman Man Haron Monis from Monday morning.

She is believed to have been killed while trying to protect a pregnant friend and fellow hostage.

Tori Johnson -- the manager of the Lindt Chocolate Cafe where the siege took place -- was also killed.

It is widely reported that he was slain as he attempted to wrangle the gun from Monis' grip.